Why Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group: Mounded Tombs of Ancient Japan inscribed World Heritage Sites in 2019?

Located on a plateau above the Osaka plain in Japan, this property includes 49 mounds (kofuns) made for the members of the elite. A material representation of the Kofun period from the third to the sixth century CE, these 49 kofuns were chosen from among a total of 1,60,000 in Japan.

The property demonstrates the differences in social classes that existed then and stands testimony to a highly sophisticated funerary system. The kofuns, which were once decorated with paving stones and clay figures, can be found in the shapes of a keyhole, scallop, square or circle.

Despite changed uses and landscape treatments, and the high degree of 20th century urbanisation of the Osaka region, the kofun are a significant visible and historical presence within the present-day landscape. The authenticity of the selected kofun is demonstrated by their forms, materials and extensive archaeological contents, as well as the esteem which they engender in Japanese society. While the Ryobo generally demonstrate a high degree of authenticity, there are variations within the series. There is a need to ensure that seibi works are subject to impact assessment and reviewed in order to sustain the authenticity of the kofun.

 

Picture Credit : Google